CBSE Class 10 Social Science Sample Paper 21 Page 1

Sample Paper 21
Class - 10th Exam - 2024 - 25
Social Science
Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 80
General Instructions :
1. The question paper comprises Six Sections – A, B, C, D, E and F. There are 37 questions in the
Question paper. All questions are compulsory.
2. Section A – From questions 1 to 20 are MCQs of 1 mark each.
3. Section B – Question no. 21 to 24 are Very Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 2 marks each.
Answer to each question should not exceed 40 words.
4. Section C contains Q.25 to Q.29 are Short Answer Type Questions, carrying 3 marks each. Answer to
each question should not exceed 60 words.
5. Section D – Question no. 30 to 33 are long answer type questions, carrying 5 marks each. Answer to
each question should not exceed 120 words.
6. Section E – Questions no from 34 to 36 are case based questions with three sub questions and are of 4
marks each. Answer to each question should not exceed 100 words.
7. Section F – Question no. 37 is map based, carrying 5 marks with two parts, 37a from History (2 marks)
and 37b from Geography (3 marks).
8. There is no overall choice in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in few
questions. Only one of the choices in such questions must be attempted.
9. A separate question has been provided for visually impaired candidates in lieu of questions having visual
inputs, maps etc. Such questions are to be attempted by Visually impaired students only. In addition to
this, separate instructions are given with each section and question, wherever necessary.

SECTION - A
Section A consists of 20 questions of 1 mark each.
1. Which of the following aspect best signifies this image?

(a) Round table conference at London

(b) Constituent Assembly of India
(c) The Frankfurt Parliament in the church of St. Paul
(d) The Hall of Mirrors of Versailles

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2. Arrange the following in the correct sequence:

1. Chauri Chaura Incident
2. Khilafat Movement
3. Jallianwala Bagh Incident
4. Mahatma Gandhi returned to India
Options
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3 (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
(c) 4, 3, 2, 1 (d) 2, 1, 4, 3

3. Which of the following was an outcome of the Great Depression on European colonies?
(a) Colonies were forced to grow cash crops, leading to widespread poverty.
(b) Colonies became self-sufficient and independent of European powers.
(c) Colonies began industrializing rapidly, reducing dependence on European goods.
(d) Colonies gained political independence, ending European domination.

4. Print culture influenced debates on social issues in colonial India, particularly related to caste and
gender. Which of the following statements about print culture and social reform are correct?
1. Print culture provided a platform for social reformers to challenge orthodox practices.
2. The spread of print helped promote traditional caste hierarchies.
3. Women’s issues such as education were discussed through printed pamphlets and books.
4. Print culture was used by the British to suppress reform movements.
Options :
(a) 1 and 3 (b) 2 and 4
(c) 1, 3, and 4 (d) 2 and 3

5. Which of the following is a characteristic of intensive subsistence farming in densely populated

regions of India?
(a) Use of high amounts of labor and fertilizers to increase crop production.
(b) Dependence on large machinery and automation for crop production.
(c) Growing a single crop over large areas for export to international markets.
(d) Use of traditional tools and minimal inputs to cultivate small plots of land.

6. In the classification of resources, understanding the difference between renewable and non-
renewable resources is crucial for sustainable management. Evaluate the following statements
about renewable resources in India:
1. Solar energy is a renewable resource that is abundant and sustainable.
2. Coal is considered a renewable resource as it can be replenished naturally over time.
3. Wind energy is harnessed as a renewable source through the use of wind turbines.
4. Timber from forests is a non-renewable resource due to its limited availability.
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) All statements are correct

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7. In India, which of the following activities is allowed in biosphere reserves but restricted in national
parks and wildlife sanctuaries?
(a) Commercial mining, which is strictly prohibited in all protected areas.
(b) Agriculture and the sustainable use of natural resources by local communities.
(c) Poaching and hunting of wild animals for sport or profit.
(d) Large-scale deforestation to clear land for urban development.

8. Consider the following statements:

Statement I: The Ganges River originates in the Himalayas.
Statement II: Groundwater recharge occurs when excess rainwater percolates through the soil to
replenish aquifers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only I is correct. (b) Only II is correct.
(c) Both I and II are correct. (d) Neither I nor II is correct.

9. Which feature of the Indian Constitution ensures that both the central and state governments
have their own distinct areas of authority?
(a) Concurrent List (b) Union List
(c) State List (d) Federal Structure

10. India’s federal system provides for different types of power-sharing arrangements. Which of the
following is an example of vertical power-sharing in India?
1. Power shared between the central government and state governments
2. Power shared between different organs of government
3. Power shared between different social groups
4. Power shared among different levels of local government
Options :
(a) 1 and 4 (b) 1 and 2
(c) 2 and 4 (d) Only 1

11. Caste inequalities are deeply rooted in Indian society. Which of the following statements about
caste inequalities are correct?
1. Caste inequalities have been addressed by legal measures.
2. Caste-based reservations are provided in educational institutions.
3. Discrimination based on caste is permitted in rural areas.
4. Caste inequalities no longer exist in urban areas.
Options :
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3 (d) 3 and 4

12. Political parties are an integral part of a democracy, and their main role includes representing
the people and ensuring that their voices are heard in governance. One of the most important
functions of political parties is _______.
(a) Imposing laws (b) Making policies
(c) Contesting elections (d) Suppressing opposition

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13. Which of the following is a key feature of power-sharing arrangements in a democracy?

Statement I : It prevents the domination of any one group by ensuring that power is shared across
all levels of government.
Statement II : Power-sharing helps in reducing conflicts between different social groups.
(a) Only Statement I is correct
(b) Only Statement II is correct
(c) Both Statements I and II are correct
(d) Both Statements I and II are incorrect

14. Match the following:

List I List I
A. Soybean 1. Kharif
B. Peas 2. Leguminous
C. Groundnut 3. Zaid
D. Watermelon 4. Rabi
Option :
(a) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3 (b) A-3, B-4, C-2, D-1
(c) A-2, B-1, C-4, D-3 (d) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3

15. Which of the following activities is part of the secondary sector of the Indian economy?
(a) Cultivating crops and raising livestock.
(b) Manufacturing automobiles and textiles.
(c) Providing healthcare and education services.
(d) Conducting scientific research and information technology services.

16. Collateral is often required by banks before giving loans. Which of the following best describes
collateral?
1. A small deposit made by the borrower
2. A guarantee provided by a third party
3. An asset that the borrower owns and pledges as security for the loan
4. A gift given by the lender to the borrower
Options :
(a) Only 3 (b) 2 and 4
(c) 1 and 2 (d) 3 and 4

17. India’s policy of liberalization, which began in 1991, encouraged foreign investment by removing
trade barriers, such as import _______ and export restrictions.
(a) Taxes (b) Duties
(c) Quotas (d) Subsidies

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18. Match List I (forms of power-sharing) with List II (forms of government) and select the correct
answer using codes given below the lists:
List I List II

I. Power sharing among different organs of government A. Communist government

II. Power shared among government at different levels B. Separation of powers

III. Power shared by different social groups C. Coalition of government

IV. Power shared by two or more political parties D. Federal government

Option :
(a) I - D, II - A, III - B, IV - C (b) II - B, II - C, III - D, IV - A
(c) III - B, II - D, III - A, IV - C (d) IV - C, II - D, III - A, IV - B

19. Interpret the following pie diagram and choose the correct option for the following question?

Why do mobile services account for 60 percent of the total telecommunication users?
(a) Mobile services are more affordable and accessible.
(b) Mobile phones are used primarily in rural areas.
(c) Landline services are more efficient.
(d) Internet services require complex infrastructure.

20. Read the data given below and answer the question:
State Deforestation Rate (per year) Reforestation Rate (per year)
State A 3% 2%
State B 1.5% 4%
Why does State B have a better forest cover recovery rate compared to State A?
(a) State A has a lower reforestation rate.
(b) State A has higher urbanization rates.
(c) State B focuses more on industrial development.
(d) State B has implemented better forest management programs.

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SECTION - B
Very Short Answer Question (4 × 2 = 8)

21. “Bismarck’s Realpolitik was instrumental in German unification.” Justify this statement with
suitable arguments.

22. “Transportation networks are essential for economic growth.” Explain their role.

23. “The division of powers prevents concentration of authority.” Explain how the division of powers
achieves this.


O
“Flexibility in the Indian Constitution aids in effective power sharing.” Justify this statement with
suitable examples.

24. “Gender equality is crucial for development.” Explain why gender equality contributes to
development.

SECTION - C
Short Answer Based Question (5 × 3 = 15)

25. “Kiran has recently moved to a new city and wants to understand the importance of transportation
systems in the economy. He is unfamiliar with how different modes of transport contribute to
economic activities.” Help him identify the role of various transportation systems in supporting
economic growth and development.

26. “The partition of Bengal in 1905 ignited nationalist sentiments in India.” Explain the statement
by giving suitable examples.

27. “Vikram is interested in starting a tech company but is unclear about the natural and human
resources essential for its success.” Assist him in identifying the natural and human resources
necessary for launching a tech company.

28. “Federalism enhances citizen participation in governance.” Explain the statement by giving any
three examples.

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29. Over the past fifty years, India’s mining sector has expanded, contributing significantly to raw
material supply for various industries. As a result, the mining sector remains a critical part of the
Indian economy. Why does the mining sector continue to be important in India? Support your
answer by giving any three reasons.


O
In recent times, the tourism industry in India has flourished, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Consequently, the tourism sector has become a major contributor to India’s economy. Why has the
tourism sector become so significant in India? Support your answer by giving any three reasons.

SECTION - D
Long Answer Based Question (4 × 5 = 20)

30. ‘Technological advancements played a crucial role in the expansion of empires.’ Substantiate the
statement with key features.


O
‘Migration has been a significant factor in shaping global populations.’ Explain the statement with
relevant points.

31. In Sanjay’s region, forest fires are a common occurrence. What are the causes of forest fires, and
what measures can be taken to control and prevent them?


O
Vandana learns that non-renewable energy sources are depleting rapidly. What are the consequences
of over-reliance on non-renewable energy sources, and how can the transition to renewable energy
be encouraged?

32. ‘Political empowerment of women remains a challenge despite legal provisions.’ Discuss the
representation of women in Indian politics.


O
‘The principle of secularism ensures that religion does not interfere with politics.’ Explain how
secularism is practiced in India.

33. Mr. D is studying the functions of commercial banks. Explain how banks contribute to economic
development by providing credit to industries, small businesses, and individuals, and why their
role in financial intermediation is crucial for the growth of the economy.


O
Sunita deposits her savings in a bank and earns interest. Explain how banks act as intermediaries
between savers and borrowers and how this helps channel funds into productive investments.

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SECTION - E
Case Based Questions (3 × 4 = 12)

34. Read the given extract and answer the following questions.
We have seen how crucial political parties are for the working of democracy. Since parties are the
most visible face of democracy, it is natural that people blame parties for whatever is wrong with
the working of democracy. All over the world, people express strong dissatisfaction with the failure
of political parties to perform their functions well. This is the case in our country too. Popular
dissatisfaction and criticism has focused on four problem areas in the working of political parties.
Political parties need to face and overcome these challenges in order to remain effective instruments
of democracy.
In order to face these challenges, political parties need to be reformed. The question is: Are political
parties willing to reform? If they are willing, what has prevented them from reforming so far? If they
are not willing, is it possible to force them to reform? Citizens all over the world face this question.
This is not a simple question to answer. In a democracy, the final decision is made by leaders who
represent political parties. People can replace them, but only by another set of party leaders. If all
of them do not wish to reform, how can anyone force them to change?
Questions :
1. How can you say that there is lack of internal democracy within political parties?
2. List any one major challenge which the political parties face in the present era?
3. “Defection makes democracy weak” Explain the steps taken by our leaders to end defection.

35. Read the extract and answer the questions that follow:
In general, MNCs set up production where it is close to the markets, where there is skilled and
unskilled labour available at low costs and where the availability of other factors of production is
assured. In addition,
MNCs might look for government policies that look after their interests. Having assured themselves
of these conditions, MNCs set up factories and offices for production. The money that is spent to
buy assets such as land, building, machines and other equipment is called investment. Investment
made by MNCs is called foreign investment. Any investment is made with the hope that these assets
will earn profits.
At times, MNCs set up production jointly with some of the local companies of these countries. The
benefit to the local company of such joint production is two-fold. First, MNCs can provide money
for additional investments, like buying new machines for faster production. Second, MNCs might
bring with them the latest technology for production.
But the most common route for MNC investments is to buy up local companies and then to expand
production. MNCs with huge wealth can quite easily do so. To take an example, Cargill Foods,
a very large American MNC, has bought over smaller Indian companies such as Parakh Foods.
Parakh Foods had built a large marketing network in various parts of India, where its brand was
well-reputed. Also, Parakh Foods had four oil refineries, whose control has now shifted to Cargill.
Cargill is now the largest producer of edible oil in India, with a capacity to make 5 million pouches
daily. In fact, many of the top MNCs have wealth exceeding the entire budgets of the developing

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CBSE Class 10 Social Science Sample Paper 21 Page 9

country governments. With such enormous wealth, imagine the power and influence of these MNCs.
Questions :
1. Write any two conveniences for which MNCs set production.
2. What is the difference between investment and foreign investment?
3. What is the common route for MNC investments? Give an example.

36. Read the sources given below and answer the questions that follows:
Colonies such as India exported raw materials and food stuff and imported finished goods. Trade was
the main channel connecting distant countries. This was before large companies called multinational
corporations (MNCs) emerged on the scene. A MNC is a company that owns or controls production
in more than one nation. MNCs set up offices and factories for production in regions where they
can get cheap labour and other resources.
MNCs set up factories and offices for production: The money that is spent to buy assets such as
land, building, machines and other equipment is called investment. Investment made by MNCs is
called foreign investment. Any investment is made with the hope that these assets will earn profits.
Even more remarkable have been the developments in information and communication technology. In
recent times, technology in the areas of telecommunications, computers, Internet has been changing
rapidly. Telecommunication facilities (telegraph, telephone including mobile phones, fax) are used
to contact one another around the world, to access information instantly, and to communicate from
remote areas. This has been facilitated by satellite communication devices.
Questions :
1. Why some companies called multinational corporations (MNCs)?
2. What do you understand by foreign investment?
3. What type of technology are used to contact one another around the world?

SECTION-F
Map Skill Based Question (Q 37a and 37b) 2+3=5

37. (a) Two places A and B have been marked on the given outline map of India. Identify them on
the map and write their correct names on the line drawn near them.
A. A place where Congress session was held in 1920.
B. A place where Congress session was held in 1927.

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(b) On the same outline map of India, locate and label any three of the following with suitable
symbols.
C. Hirakud dam
D. Tungabhadra darm
E. Bhakra Nangal dam
F. Salal dam

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